How Italian Style Has Made An Impact on UK Interior Design

September 4, 2023

Italians have long been known for their refined sense of style and love of high quality materials. Italy was at the heart of the Roman Empire and the Renaissance in the 15th century, and has a long culture of exquisite design and beautiful craftsmanship. From clothing to architecture, Italian design has made a lasting impression on the world. 

Here’s a look at some of the key features of Italian interior design and how they are incorporated into our homes here in the UK and around the world. 

Natural materials

Italian interior design is celebrated for its elegant simplicity and use of natural materials, including ceramics, stone, and wood. In kitchens you will often find polished ceramic tiles combined with natural wood cabinetry to bring a timeless charm. 

The kitchen is often the heart of the home in Italy, thanks to a strong culinary tradition that values fresh natural produce and the much-admired Mediterranean diet. Therefore kitchens are a marriage of form and function; designed to be family-friendly and welcoming as well as attractive spaces that are a pleasure to cook and socialise in. 

As here in the UK, there is currently a strong focus on incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly materials into interior design.

Minimalism

The trend for minimalist interiors endures because of its timeless marriage of simplicity and sophistication, and it is a central feature of Italian interior design. It differs from the popular Scandinavian style in that it tends to warmer colour palettes and has an extra twist of creative flair, whether through pattern, texture or small decorative details. 

Open plan living

Living quarters are often plan with a thoughtful combination of colours and textures. This creates an interior where the light flows through, enhancing the feeling of harmony and space. Each element of an Italian home is designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. 

Luxurious textures

Italian interiors often contrast a restrained colour palette and clean lines with luxurious textures. This might include premium grade leather for furniture coverings and trimmings, or the finest wools or sheepskins for rugs, carpets, throws and blankets. 

Mosaic patterns

The art of mosaic tiles dates all the way to back to the third Millennium BC, where the first use has been traced to the historic Western Asian region of Mesopotamia.  Ancient Rome made widespread use of coloured pieces of glass, porcelain, or stone to create intricate patterns that often covered an entire wall, floor, or even ceiling. 

Recently, there has been a resurgence of interest in mosaic wall and floor tiles to add interest to kitchens and bathrooms in the UK. This is an excellent way to bring together a touch of modern and classic style to your home.